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Gorgonzola Crostini with Roasted Red Pepper Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a quick, elegant appetizer that truly wows, you have to try my Gorgonzola Crostini with Roasted Red Pepper Recipe. It’s one of those simple dishes that feels fancy without any fuss, perfect for impressing guests or just elevating your snack game. I absolutely love how the creamy, tangy gorgonzola pairs with the sweet, smoky roasted red peppers—it’s a flavor combo that never gets old. Stick with me, and I’ll walk you through every step to nail it every time!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simple Ingredients: Just a few pantry staples come together to create big, bold flavors.
  • Fast and Easy: In under 20 minutes, you can have a beautiful appetizer on the table.
  • Versatility: Perfect for parties, casual get-togethers, or a special indulgence.
  • Crowd Pleaser: My family goes crazy for these, and I’m sure you will too!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind this Gorgonzola Crostini with Roasted Red Pepper Recipe comes from balancing creamy, salty cheese with sweet roasted peppers atop crusty slices of baguette—trust me, it’s a game-changer. Here’s what you’ll want to grab during your next grocery run.

  • Roasted Red Pepper: You can use jarred for convenience; look for ones packed in olive oil for extra flavor.
  • Gorgonzola Cheese: Choose a good-quality crumbled variety at room temperature for creamy spreading ease.
  • French Bread (Baguette): A fresh, crusty loaf is key for that perfect crunch under the toppings.
  • Olive Oil: A good extra virgin variety adds richness and helps toast the bread beautifully.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love showing off different takes on this Gorgonzola Crostini with Roasted Red Pepper Recipe depending on the season or my mood. Feel free to customize to match your taste and ingredients on hand—you’ll find it’s super forgiving and adaptable!

  • Add Fresh Herbs: Basil or thyme sprinkled on top adds a fresh, fragrant twist I often use.
  • Swap the Cheese: Try blue cheese or goat cheese for a different tangy profile; I once surprised guests with a goat cheese version and got rave reviews.
  • Spiced Up: A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes gives a nice kick if you like a little heat.
  • Make It Vegan: Use a plant-based cheese and skip the roasted red pepper for roasted tomatoes—still delicious!

How to Make Gorgonzola Crostini with Roasted Red Pepper Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Toast the Bread

Start by slicing your baguette into about 25 thin slices—aim for around a quarter-inch thickness so they crisp up nicely but don’t get too hard. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil; this step locks in flavor and helps the bread toast evenly. Pop them into your oven preheated at 400℉ for around 7-8 minutes, flipping halfway through for an even golden crunch. You’ll want to watch closely so they don’t burn—once they’re crisp and slightly golden, they’re ready!

Step 2: Prepare the Toppings

While your bread is toasting, get the toppings ready. Chop the roasted red peppers finely; I like mine small enough to spread but still with some texture. Let your gorgonzola come to room temperature—that softens it up and makes it a dream to spread or dollop.

Step 3: Assemble and Serve

When the crostini are toasted and cool enough to handle, spread or crumble a generous amount of gorgonzola onto each slice. Top with a spoonful of chopped roasted red pepper, gently pressing it down so it sticks but still stays vibrant. Arrange them on a serving platter and watch how quickly they disappear—I promise this Gorgonzola Crostini with Roasted Red Pepper Recipe will be a hit!

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Pro Tips for Making Gorgonzola Crostini with Roasted Red Pepper Recipe

  • Room Temperature Gorgonzola: Letting the cheese warm up a bit makes spreading much easier and the flavors shine brighter.
  • Use Quality Bread: A fresh baguette with a crisp crust and soft interior elevates the whole experience.
  • Don’t Skip the Olive Oil: Brushing the bread inside and out gives a golden, flavorful crunch—worth the extra step!
  • Balance Flavors Carefully: If your gorgonzola is very strong, use a little less to not overpower the sweet peppers.

How to Serve Gorgonzola Crostini with Roasted Red Pepper Recipe

The image shows a baking tray lined with white parchment paper, holding multiple small toasted bread slices arranged in rows. Each slice has two layers: the first layer is a melting white and bluish cheese with a creamy texture spread unevenly, and the second layer is bright red roasted pepper pieces scattered on top. The bread has a golden-brown crust with a slightly rough texture and a soft yellow inside. There are small bits of melted cheese and drops of oil on the parchment around the bread, and the whole scene is set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I often like finishing these crostini with a sprig of fresh thyme or a light drizzle of aged balsamic vinegar—it adds a subtle freshness and a hint of tang that’s just irresistible. Sometimes a sprinkle of cracked black pepper or toasted pine nuts gives that extra pop of texture and flavor that guests will notice.

Side Dishes

Because these crostini are rich and flavorful, I pair them with something light like a crisp arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or simple marinated olives. For a heartier spread, roasted nuts and fresh figs work beautifully to round out the appetizer table.

Creative Ways to Present

For special gatherings, I like to serve these on a rustic wooden board adorned with fresh herbs scattered around. Layering the crostini with some edible flowers or small clusters of grapes adds a pretty, elegant touch — perfect for dinner parties or holiday celebrations.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (rare in my house!), store the toasted crostini in an airtight container at room temperature to keep their crunch. Keep the toppings separate in the fridge in sealed containers for up to two days.

Freezing

I don’t recommend freezing assembled crostini since the bread loses crispness. However, you can freeze sliced baguette raw—toast or bake it fresh when ready. The gorgonzola and peppers freeze well separately but are best enjoyed fresh for texture and flavor.

Reheating

If you need to reheat crostini, pop them in a 350℉ oven for a few minutes to refresh the crunch. Add the gorgonzola and roasted peppers after reheating so they stay creamy and vibrant. This little extra step makes a big difference!

FAQs

  1. Can I make this Gorgonzola Crostini with Roasted Red Pepper Recipe ahead of time?

    You can prepare the bread and toppings ahead separately. Toast the baguette slices and store them in an airtight container, keep the gorgonzola and roasted peppers refrigerated until ready to assemble just before serving for the best texture.

  2. What can I substitute for gorgonzola if I don’t like blue cheese?

    Great question! I’ve swapped gorgonzola out with goat cheese or cream cheese with a pinch of lemon zest for tanginess, both work beautifully while keeping the creamy texture.

  3. How do I store leftovers without the bread getting soggy?

    Separate the toasted bread from the toppings. Store bread at room temperature in a sealed container, and keep the gorgonzola and roasted red peppers refrigerated. Assemble just before eating to maintain crispness.

  4. Can I use fresh roasted red peppers instead of jarred?

    Absolutely! Roasting your own peppers adds a smoky depth that’s incredible, but jarred ones are a perfect time-saver and still delicious.

Final Thoughts

This Gorgonzola Crostini with Roasted Red Pepper Recipe is truly a kitchen staple for me—whenever I bring these out, friends instantly ask for the recipe. The balance of creamy, tangy cheese with sweet roasted peppers on crunchy bread is downright addictive. Whether it’s a casual night or a special celebration, these crostini never fail to impress. I can’t wait for you to try making them yourself and enjoy all the compliments you’ll get!

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Gorgonzola Crostini with Roasted Red Pepper Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.8 from 127 reviews
  • Author: Nora
  • Prep Time: 7 min
  • Cook Time: 10 min
  • Total Time: 17 min
  • Yield: 25 pieces
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Description

Gorgonzola Crostini with Roasted Red Pepper is a simple yet elegant appetizer featuring crunchy French baguette slices topped with creamy, tangy gorgonzola cheese and sweet roasted red peppers. Perfect for parties or an easy snack, this recipe offers a delightful combination of rich flavors and crunchy texture.


Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • ½ cup Roasted Red Pepper, chopped
  • 5 oz. Gorgonzola, crumbled and at room temperature
  • 1 loaf French Bread (Baguette), cut into 25 slices
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil


Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400℉ (204℃) to prepare for toasting the bread slices.
  2. Prepare the bread: Slice the baguette into 25 even pieces. Arrange the slices on a baking sheet and brush each piece lightly with olive oil to ensure a golden, crispy finish.
  3. Toast the bread: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes, until the bread slices are crisp and lightly browned.
  4. Assemble the crostini: Remove the toasted bread from the oven and immediately spread crumbled gorgonzola on each slice while still warm, allowing the cheese to soften slightly.
  5. Add roasted red pepper: Top each crostini with a spoonful of chopped roasted red pepper to complement the creamy and tangy flavor of the gorgonzola.
  6. Serve: Arrange the crostini on a platter and serve warm or at room temperature as a delightful appetizer.

Notes

  • This is an easy 3-ingredient appetizer that delivers a burst of rich, buttery, tangy flavor with every bite.
  • Using room temperature gorgonzola helps it spread easily on the warm bread for the best texture.
  • For added flavor, consider drizzling a little balsamic glaze over the crostini before serving.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 piece
  • Calories: 74 kcal
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 200 mg
  • Fat: 3 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 1.3 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 9 g
  • Fiber: 0.4 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 4 mg

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